Rio Ferdinand has expressed surprise at Myles Lewis-Skelly’s lack of playing time at Arsenal this season, particularly after the defender’s outstanding breakthrough campaign last term. Emerging from the club’s Hale End academy, Lewis-Skelly quickly built a reputation as one of the most promising young defenders in English football and was widely regarded as the standout left back in the league during his debut year.
His rapid progress even saw him earn recognition on the international stage, becoming the preferred option for the England national team under Thomas Tuchel. However, his trajectory has slowed this season, as Riccardo Calafiori has established himself as Arsenal’s first-choice left back. As a result, Lewis-Skelly has largely been restricted to appearances from the bench in both domestic and European fixtures.
Ferdinand’s Assessment
When asked to compare the two defenders, Ferdinand made it clear that he does not believe Calafiori is the superior option. As quoted by the Metro, he said, “No way. No way. Lewis-Skelly is better on the ball in midfield and I didn’t see him get beat defensively last season except when he got a couple of red cards. I watched him in big games last season and he looked so unfazed, it was a joke. I can’t believe he’s not in the team. It’s probably because Calafiori is bigger and better defensively in the air. But Lewis-Skelly can defend too but also looks great on the ball.”
His comments underline the frustration some observers feel at seeing a player of Lewis-Skelly’s potential reduced to a back-up role. Ferdinand highlighted both his composure in major matches and his technical ability, suggesting that the defender offers qualities that could benefit Arsenal’s overall style of play.
Competition for Places
At a club of Arsenal’s stature, competition for places is inevitable, and Lewis-Skelly’s current situation is a reminder of the fine margins that define selection at the highest level. Calafiori’s physical presence and aerial strength have convinced Mikel Arteta to rely on the Italian as his first-choice option, but the season is long, and opportunities are likely to arise.
For Lewis-Skelly, the task now is to continue working, refining his game, and remaining ready to step in when called upon. His talent and versatility are evident, and with patience and persistence, he will have further chances to prove himself.
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I am sure MLS will get his chance. Calafiori has been injury prone but also like Ferdinand says (and he should know) MLS is too good not to play. We are lucky to have two very good left sided defenders.
Ferdinand is a moron.
Myles breakthrough last season was great , yet for a young player to thrown in also carries risk – tuchel called him up to the national team with a clear disregard to the player and club – clubs need to manage players minutes better… yet failing to accept he is selecting him because of his form and ability which arsenal have overseen.
Myles starting on the bench – keeps expectations grounded, no burnout and ultimately there are plenty of games where he will be required
So ferdinand, just like all these other ex players are putting a dampener on arsenal’s recent win over Newcastle and ultimately coming through an exceptionally difficult start to the season with our fixture list. They will find anything to create a narrative about arsenal.
Was it great ?
Ad,
He was asked a question and answered it. What did you expect him to say to the question, no comment. #
And it’s a bit strong calling him a moron. He’s entitled to his opinion like every one else. Even if you don’t agree with it. No need to get personal.🤦♂️
He needs to be more sensible in his responses. There is one spot, two good players and plenty of games to be played. It is not reasonable for people to be claiming that they are “baffled” at this stage of the season especially when Calafiori’s form has been pretty good.
Ferdinand will never see Arsenal objectively. He is an adversary, and thatcant be musket or disguised. MLS is not as defensively astute as Calafiori yet. He’s strong for his age, but doesn’t match Cala. He’s often bundled to the ground in his forward runs, where defenders retrieve in the case of Cala. He’s also only developing his distance shooting to raise his expected goals per shot. Lets give him time and not overstretch him.
The competition will be even more fierce when Hincapié return to the pitch.
So Calafiori is a proper footballer but there will be more than enough games for the young Englishman
Yes LS is good but looses back frequently at the back due to the nature of how he defends. Physical presence is a plus for Califiori. I think cali should start. Nd when the team has consolidated well with enough goals Lewis Shelly can come . He needs to build himself up physically and mentally for Premiership football